The Show has many similarities to real game shows. The set is modeled much after those designed in the 1970s. In particular, the rounded rectangles, chasing lights, and orange shag carpet featured in the background suggest a reference to the Match Game prior to 1978. Homestar's mic is also similar to Gene Rayburn's mic from the Match Game and Bob Barker's original mic from The Price Is Right. The game Pom Pom and The Poopsmith are playing in The Show's debut, the show, bears resemblance to Hollywood Squares, a popular game show originally airing in the late '60s.

The Show: Stupid Home Edition by Boardelectrix, appeared in the email geddup noise. It is given to losing contestants as a "fine parting gift." The game, according to the front of the box, has these features:

The Show AM debuted in "4 branches". Unlike The Show, The Show AM is a morning/tabloid talk show (like The View or Maury) instead of a game show. It uses the same set and microphone as The Show. The majority of The Show AM's audience is female, and the discussions range from fashion makeovers using simple items around the house (such as mustard) to angry confrontations among people in dysfunctional relationships.

Its title alludes to Match Game PM, a syndicated spin-off of Match Game that aired weekly during a nighttime time slot (by contrast to its daytime version, which aired daily on CBS).

The Punkin Show, first seen in the similarly titled Punkin Show toon, features Homestar judging various fan-submitted pumpkins with the help of his Ding Board. Paint daubs appear to be strictly prohibited, perhaps due to The Punkin Show's sponsorship by the Council Against Paint Daubs. Other promoters include Bubs' Concession Stand, Scary Bubs' Concession Stand, and the Homestar Jr. burger.